The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has paid emotional tribute to the late Ernest Kumi, the party’s former parliamentary candidate for Akwatia, following its defeat in Tuesday’s by-election.
Certified results from the Electoral Commission showed Bernard Bediako of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) winning with 18,199 votes, ahead of NPP’s Kwame Asumadu, who polled 15,235. The Liberal Party of Ghana’s (LPG) Owusu Patrick managed 82 votes. In total, 33,819 valid ballots were cast, with 303 rejected.
While conceding defeat, Eastern Regional Secretary of the NPP, Tony Osei-Adjei, reflected on the memory of the late Kumi, whose political journey was cut short after a protracted legal battle.
“To some extent, we disappointed him because he lost his life in trying to maintain the seat. He fought every bit of his life to restore his honour and dignity to the people of Akwatia,” Osei-Adjei said.
Kumi, who had been entangled in court challenges over his candidacy, passed away before the by-election was held. The NPP leadership believes his legacy continues to inspire loyalty within the constituency despite the electoral setback.
Osei-Adjei stressed that although the outcome was not what the party anticipated, it respected the verdict of the people.
“The constituents have spoken, and we accept it in good faith,” he noted.
For many within the NPP, the by-election was not only a political contest but also a symbolic attempt to defend the legacy of a fallen comrade whose passion for Akwatia remained undimmed until his last days.
